Safety apparatus and method for portable, foldable playards and playpens

ABSTRACT

A sheet for covering a mattress having at least one strap attached to the mattress that includes openings that accommodate strap or that includes markings for such openings. A pattern for making such openings. The sheet further includes a first end, and a second end. The sheet has openings or pockets in the first end and in the second end to allow the at least one strap attached to the mattress to pass through the sheet. The at least one strap is for securing the mattress.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments described herein relate to a safety apparatus for portable, foldable playard or playpen. Various embodiments described herein also relate to a method to promote safe use of a portable, foldable playard or playpen.

BACKGROUND

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplained death, usually during sleep, of a seemingly healthy baby less than a year old. SIDS is sometimes known as crib death because the infants often die in their cribs. SIDs can also occur in playards or playpens, including the portable and foldable type. In fact, many times the playards and playpens are used as a substitute for a crib. In fact, some manufacturers include various options, such as a bassinet specifically designed to fold with the playard for easy set up and take down.

Although the cause is unknown, it appears that SIDS may be associated with abnormalities in the portion of an infant's brain that controls breathing and arousal from sleep.

Researchers have discovered some factors that may put babies at extra risk. Researchers also identified some measures you can take to help protect your child from SIDS. Perhaps the most important measure is placing your baby on his or her back to sleep.

The manufacturers of portable, foldable playards or playpens also include warnings. In one manual, the warning entitled “Avoiding Suffocation Hazards”. The warning from one manufacturer specifically states includes a warning regarding thicker mattresses than those provided or even the use of pillows.

There is also a warning against using a sheet. The warning states “Never use a playard sheet unless it fits securely on playard mattress.” Most manufactures of the portable, foldable playards or playpens sell a fitted sheet for their models of the portable, foldable playards or playpens. There are several manufacturers of portable, foldable playards or playpens. The dimensions of the mattresses for each manufacturer tends to vary slightly. Still other manufactures sell generic playard sheets that may fit more than one portable, foldable playard or playpen. Most if not all of the sheets are fitted. The fitted sheet includes elastic corners. Some fitted sheets also include elastic on one or two of the other edges. The elastic allows the sheet to fit over the mattress. The elastic “shrinks” the dimension associated with the edges and corner of the sheet so that it retracts to a position under the mattress.

Even though fitted sheets are sold and used on a playard or playpen, some regulatory bodies prohibit the use of such sheets. For example, the state of Minnesota in the USA has rules that govern childcare providers. Daycare providers are licensed in Minnesota and undergo periodic inspections in order to maintain their licenses, MN Rule 9502.0425, Subparagraph 9 includes rules on bedding and the like. Inspectors enforce these rules and require daycare providers to go through a series of rigorous processes, including training classes, for preventing suffocation and SIDs. The inspectors also require daycare providers to follow the recommendations of the CPSC and AAP. In the past, the inspectors would not allow daycare providers the use of the fitted sheets as children might get these off the mattress and pose a suffocation hazard. More recently, the governing body for licensing daycare sent out a letters to daycare providers regarding the use of fitted sheets in playards and playpens.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. However, a more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description when considered in connection with the figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar items throughout the figures and:

FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a mattress assembly for a product that provides a contained child play and/or sleep area, commonly known as a playard.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a playard suitable for use in conjunction with the mattress assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the mattress assembly of FIG. 1 as it is being removed from the playard.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the playard of FIG. 2 in a near folded configuration and a top perspective view of the removed mattress assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the playard of FIG. 2 in a completely folded configuration with the mattress assembly folded around and surrounding the playard in a first mattress orientation.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the playard of FIG. 2 in a completely folded configuration with the mattress assembly folded around and surrounding the playard in a second mattress orientation.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the folded playard of FIG. 5A being inserted into a storage bag.

FIG. 7 is a fitted sheet for a Graco Pack 'n Play which measures 27″×39″ which fits the mattress of a Graco Pack 'n Play playard.

FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of a fitted sheet on a mattress for a playard.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic of a sheet according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic of a sheet end of a fitted sheet according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a schematic of a sheet end of a fitted sheet according to another example embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a schematic of a sheet end of a fitted sheet according to yet another example embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows a sheet end of a fitted sheet having a plurality of elongated openings across the entire end of the fitted sheet, according to yet another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 shows a view of one end of the sheet with one of the pockets in an open position.

FIG. 15 shows a bottom view of the sheet having an end and another end, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 16 shows a bottom view of an end of the sheet, according to an example embodiment.

The description set out herein illustrates the various embodiments of the invention and such description is not intended to be construed as limiting in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description includes a general description of a foldable, portable playard apparatus that includes a sectioned mattress that folds around a folded playard. The mattress folds around the folded playard and attaches to itself to form a tube or rectangular container for the playard. Foldable and portable playards are made by many manufacturers these days. Graco Children's Products, Inc. of Atlanta Ga. USA is one manufacturer. Other manufacturers include Costco and Baby Trend. Most of the foldable and portable playards work in a similar way and generally have slightly different dimensions.

Mattress assembly examples from one or more playard manufacturers are disclosed and described herein. In one example, a disclosed mattress assembly is a lightweight product with a sturdy support structure and a detachable mattress pad. The support structure and pad can be assembled and folded to a configuration to surround a collapsed playard as is known in the art. The mattress pad can be easily removed from the support structure so that it can be cleaned and replaced on the support structure, or even selectively interchanged with an alternate mattress pad.

Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a perspective bottom view of a mattress assembly 20 that will use the present invention. The mattress assembly 20 in the disclosed example includes a multi-piece support structure 22 and a mattress pad 24 detachably coupled to the support structure. The specific features of the mattress assembly 20 are described in greater detail below. The mattress assembly 20 disclosed herein is suitable for use in products that offer a contained child play or sleep area, and is particularly well suited for a product where the mattress is to be removed so that the product can be collapsed. Clearly, the mattress assembly 20 disclosed herein can be used for other products requiring a mattress, but is particularly well suited for products where the mattress is removable and where the products are intended to be portable.

One type of product that utilizes this type of mattress is configured to create a contained child play area and is commonly known as a playard. A generically configured, well-known playard 26, other than the removable mattress assembly 20 of the invention, is illustrated in FIG. 2. The playard 26 typically includes a bottom frame structure (not shown) that interconnects four corner legs 28. The corner legs 28 are supported on a ground surface by corresponding feet 30. The corner legs 28 are typically interconnected both by the bottom frame structure and a plurality of top links 32 that extend between the top ends of the legs 28. In this example, the top links 32 are covered by a suspended, overlapping fabric.

The playard 26 also has a side wall and a bottom as shown in FIG. 2. In this example, the legs 28 are interconnected by fabric, nylon, or mesh side panels 34 that form the side wall. The side panels 34, in conjunction with a bottom panel 36, define the fabric enclosure or contained area. In the typical playard 26, the bottom panel 36 is a thin fabric layer suspended and/or supported above the ground surface by the bottom frame (not shown). The typical bottom panel 36 does not offer much actual support for an occupant of the playard. Instead, a mattress assembly is typically received within the contained area of the playard, rests on the bottom panel 36, and is usually supported by the bottom frame structure above the ground surface. The mattress structure itself typically provides the firm support for an occupant of the playard.

The mattress is removable from and insertable into the playard 26, as shown in FIG. 3. Often, the bottom frame structure includes one or more additional downward projecting feet 38. The feet 38 can provide additional stability and support with the frame structure in the in-use configuration depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3.

A mattress in this type of playard typically has a plurality of sections foldable relative to one another but interconnected with one another. Each section typically has a substantially rigid panel adjacent padding or cushion material, and may have an inner liner material, as well. Each component is sewn within an outer layer of material. The sections are sewn together within the outer liner material to form an integral mattress structure that is not intended to be broken down. Thus, the panels, inner material layers, and padding of a conventional mattress can not be removed from the outer fabric layer.

Without going into any particular detail, the playard 26 is foldable to a collapsed, portable configuration. The top links 32 and bottom frame (not shown) can fold upward or downward and inward bringing the four legs 28 closer together and generally parallel to one another as depicted in FIG. 4. There are a variety of playard or playpen constructions known in the art that fold in this manner. The details of the fold configuration, latching components, and structural arrangement of the components can vary without effecting the scope and spirit of the present invention. Thus, such details are not described and disclosed herein. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the mattress assembly 20 of the present invention can also be removed from the playard prior to collapsing the playard structure. As shown, the mattress can be folded to form a rectangular tube or cylinder sized to surround the collapsed playard structure. The mattress assembly 20 disclosed herein can accomplish this same function.

As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the mattress assembly 20 disclosed and described herein can be folded into a four sided rectangular tube or cylinder configuration. Either a bottom surface 40 or a top surface 42 can be exposed to the exterior of the folded and assembled product and yet fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The collapsed playard 26, with the top surface 42 facing out and the bottom surface 40 on the interior of the folded mattress assembly 20, provides an easily transportable product configuration. As depicted in FIG. 6, this folded and collapsed assembly can be stored in a bag 44. In one example, the bag 44 can be provided with a carry handle. Alternatively, as shown in this example a surface of the playard mattress assembly 20, such as the top surface 42, can be provided with a handle 46. The handle 46 can extend through an opening in the exterior bag 44, if such a bag is provided.

A plurality of fastening or latching devices can be formed on edges of the mattress as depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6, for example, in order to assist in retaining the folded mattress assembly 20 in the folded configuration surrounding the collapsed playard structure 26. In one example, a plurality of straps 47 with hook and loop fastener material can be provided extending from one edge of the mattress. The straps can be nylon straps that are of varying thickness.

Loops 48 can be sewn or otherwise secured via straps 49 on the opposite edge of the mattress. When the mattress assembly 20 is folded around the exterior of the collapsed playard structure, the hook and loop fastener straps 47 on one edge of the mattress can be threaded through the loops 48 and secured in place. Alternatively, straps can be provided on one edge of the mattress assembly with one part of a hook and loop fastener material. A strip of the mating part of the hook and loop fastener material can be provided on the opposite edge of the mattress assembly. It should also be noted that one edge of the mattress can carry one or more straps, and an opposite edge of the mattress can carry another one or more straps. The ends of the straps can include a portion of a hook and loop fastener. The straps can be attached to the mating hook and loop fastener material to assist in securely holding the mattress in place surrounding the collapsed playard. Other types of fastening or latching devices can also certainly be employed within the spirit and scope of the present invention, such as buckles, clamps, and the like.

It should be noted that the straps have two purposes. The first purpose, illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 6, is to secure the ends of the mattress to one another to form a container that holds the collapsed playard structure 26 so that is conveniently packed and carried. The second purpose of the straps 42 is to attach the foldable mattress assembly 20 to the playard structure 26 when in the deployed, open, or unfolded position. In other words, the straps 42 attach the unfolded mattress assembly 20 to the playard structure 26 to prevent the mattress assembly 20 from folding up as children play in the playard. When attached per the instructions, the mattress assembly remains unfolded. When the mattress assembly 20 is unfolded or deployed and not attached to the playard structure 26, a child can fold the mattress assembly 20. The mattress assembly 20 is in a folded position within the playard, it can be hazardous to a child positioned in the playard.

FIG. 7 is a fitted sheet 700 for a Graco Pack 'n Play. The fitted sheet measures about 27″×39″ which fits the mattress 42 (shown in FIG. 4) of a Graco Pack 'n Play playard. Other manufacturers make similar playards with different dimensions. This is one example of a sheet 700. According to Graco, the sheet 700 fits most playards “ . . . so baby can have a snug, secure place to rest.” Furthermore, Graco playard sheets “ . . . come with snugfit pockets to ensure a secure and comfortable fit—every time.” The sheet 700 is a fitted sheet. The corners of the fitted sheet 700 have seams 710 which cover the corners of the mattress 42 when placed on an open or deployed mattress 42 within the playard. The thickness of the fitted sheet 700 is greater than the thickness of the mattress 42. The depth of the “snugfit” pockets is related to how far the corner of the sheet 700 extends beyond the corner of the mattress 42. The top of the sheet 700 and the sewn portion at the seams 710 would form a box structure with an open bottom or open end. In some embodiments, the open end folds beneath the mattress 700. In another embodiment, the open end is provided with elastic which in turn pulls the corners in to form the “snugfit” pockets discussed in the Graco literature. It should be noted that other sheets for other playards may have different dimensions. Some sheet manufacturers also make universal sheets that fit many brands of playards.

FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of a fitted sheet 700 on a mattress 42 for a playard. The mattress 42 includes one or more straps 49 which are connected or attached to the bottom edge of the mattress 42. The strap 49 shown passes through an opening or buttonhole in the flexible fabric sidewall of the playard and attaches to the bottom of the playard unit, according to the instructions for the playard. The strap 49 is attached to the bottom of the playard to prevent the mattress assembly 20 from folding up as a child plays in the playard. One strap 49 is shown in FIG. 8 in the attached position where the strap would pass through the flexible fabric of the playard sidewall. As can be seen, when the strap 49 is in the attached position, the strap 49 moves the edge 810 of the sheet 700 forming the pocket toward the edge of the mattress 42. According to at least one governmental body that inspects daycares, attaching the mattress 42 as instructed using a fitted sheet without openings (prior art), the edge 810 of the fitted sheet 700 is moved to a position where it may come off the mattress 42. If the prior art fitted sheet were to come off the mattress 42, the fitted sheet would become a choking or other hazard to a child within the playard. Most of the mattresses have more than one strap 49 that are used to hold the deployed mattress 700 to the playard. Two straps 49 seems to be the minimum number of straps 49. Generally, one strap 49 secures one end of the mattress 42 and another strap 49 securing the other end of the mattress 42 to the playard. Each strap 49 pulls the edge 810 of the sheet 700 toward the edge of the mattress 42.

Many day care inspectors see this as a problem in that the sheet 700 is not securely fastened to the mattress 42. They believe that a mattress 42 having straps 49 that move the fitted sheet 700 toward the edge of the sheet 700 presents a safety hazard for small children placed in the playard. The inspectors believe that a small child is more likely able to remove the sheet 700 from the mattress 42 given the straps 49 give the child a “head start”. As a result, many inspectors do not allow the use of a sheet 700 covering the mattress 42 as it presents a potential hazard to a child within the playard. The more straps 49 that mattress 42 has, increases the likelihood that the sheet 700 will be removed from the mattress 42 since the child has an increased number of “starting points” for removing the sheet from the mattress 42.

FIG. 9 shows a sheet 900 according to an embodiment of the invention. The sheet 900 is a fitted sheet having corners 910. The dimensions between the corners 910 are slightly bigger than the dimensions of the major surface of the mattress 42. The sheet 900 includes an opening 949 corresponding to the position of the straps 49 on the mattress 42. In other words, the sheet includes button holes or openings 949 positioned so that the strap 49 or straps 49 of a mattress 42 can be threaded through the sheet without causing the sheet 900 to bunch up or move a portion of the fitted sheet toward the edge of the mattress 42. Each strap 49 is attached to the mattress 42 and threads through an opening 949. Each end of the sheet includes such an opening. Each end of the mattress 42 includes a strap 49. In this particular view, only one end of the sheet 900 is shown. The strap 49, when threaded through the opening 949, further secures the sheet 900 to the mattress 42. There is no moving the fitted bottom toward the edge of the mattress 42. The safety hazard is averted and the sheet 900 is more securely attached to the mattress 42.

The mattress 42 has a centerline 942 as shown in FIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 4, the mattress can be provided with loops 48 on one end of the mattress 42 and with hook and loop fastener straps 48 on the other end. In other embodiments, the ends may have some loops 48 and some straps 47 on each end. In still other embodiments, the mattress may have one strap 49 on one end and another strap 49 on the other end. This embodiment is a more minimal approach. In such an embodiment, the straps 49 on the mattress 42 are centered. In other embodiments, the straps can be offset from the centerline of an end of the mattress. One is offset from the centerline 942 in one direction and the other is offset in the opposite direction from the centerline 942. The sheet 900, in this embodiment, could also have the minimum number of openings. Namely one opening 949 on one end and another opening on the other end. With just one opening in each end, the sheet would have to be placed on the mattress exactly the right way or in exactly the right orientation. Another approach is to place two openings 949 in each end of the sheet 900. In this way, the sheet 900 can be placed on the mattress 42 in either direction and the straps 49 can be passed through one of the openings 949 in one end of the sheet 900 on each end. Providing two openings is a matter of convenience for a user. When convenient, the user is more likely to thread the straps 949 through the openings 949 in the sheet 900 and through the buttonholes in the soft side of the playard to secure the mattress 42 to the playard. This also secures the sheet 900 to the mattress 42 and makes for a safer sleep environment for the child in the playard.

In essence, openings 949 are made in the sheet 900 to accommodate and let the straps 49 pass through the openings 949. The straps 49 are passed through button holes in the playard and used to secure the mattress 42 to the playard. The openings 949 are positioned to correspond to the position of the straps 49 with respect to the mattress. The openings are positioned so that when the sheet 900 is placed on the mattress 42, the openings 949 are substantially adjacent the straps 49. Thus, the openings are perpendicular to the seams forming the corners of the fitted sheets 900. In addition, the openings are placed at a distance below the top of the sheet 900 that substantially equals the thickness of the mattress 42. The openings 949 are also offset from the centerline 942 of the mattress 42 at about the same distance as the centerline of the sheet when on the mattress. The opening 949 is also about the same length as the width of the strap 49. The opening 949, in some embodiments, is reinforced with stitching or another material such as interfacing or an adhesive. The opening 949 could also be bound with binding tape. When reinforced with stitching the opening 949 appears to be a larger button hole. Of course, different playards have different dimensions and the mattresses also have different dimensions. The fitted sheet for each of the various makes is provided with openings that substantially correspond to the position of the strap or straps of the mattress. Some have multiple straps and so the mattress will have at least the same number of openings to accommodate the straps.

FIG. 10 is schematic view of an end 1010 of a sheet 1000, according to an embodiment of the invention. This is a partial view of the sheet 1000. The end 1010 is shown so that the placement of various openings can be discussed. The sheet 1000 would be a fitted sheet that could fit mattresses of at least one manufacturer's playard sheets. The sheet end 1010 includes a fold line (not visible) which is where the sheet folds to become part of the fitted portion that is positioned between the mattress and the playard (shown in previous FIGS.). The sheet end 1010 also includes opening 1049. The openings are positioned down from the top edge of the sheet end by a dimension T. The dimension T is approximately the thickness of the mattress 42 (shown in FIG. 4). The sheet end 1010 also includes a centerline 1042 which is substantially perpendicular to the centerline 942 (shown in FIG. 4). The opening 1049 has a width which is slightly larger than the width of the strap 49 of the mattress. When slightly larger than the width of the strap 49, the opening 1049 can accommodate the strap 49. The strap opening 1049 is offset from the centerline 1042 by a dimension “d” and is approximately the same distance as the offset of the strap 49 from the center of the mattress 42 or from the centerline of the mattress 42. With these dimensions in place, the placement of the openings 1049 for any sheet for any particular manufacturer can be determined. In one embodiment, the mattress may have two straps. One on each end of the mattress and offset a distance “d” from the longitudinal center of the mattress 42. By placing two openings on each sheet end 1010, the sheet does not have to be specifically placed on the mattress 42 to receive the straps 49 of the mattress. Of course, in another embodiment, there may be four straps 49. Each end of the mattress 42 corresponding to a sheet end 1010 would have two straps offset from the centerline 942 of the mattress by a distance “d”. In this instance, all the straps could be accommodated by the openings 1049 in each sheet end 1010.

FIG. 11 is schematic view of an end 1110 of a sheet 1100, according to another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, straps 49 from several different manufacturers could be accommodated. This is a partial view of the sheet 1100. The end 1110 is shown so that the placement of various openings can be discussed. The sheet 1100 would be a fitted sheet that could fit mattresses of at least two manufacturer's playard sheets. The sheet end 1110 includes a fold line (not visible) which is where the sheet folds to become part of the fitted portion that is positioned between the mattress and the playard (shown in previous FIGS.). The sheet end 1110 also includes openings 1049 and openings 1149. The openings 1049 1149 are positioned down from the top edge of the sheet end by a dimension T. The dimension T is approximately the thickness of the mattress 42 (shown in FIG. 4). In this embodiment, it is presumed that the thickness of each manufacturer's mattress is substantially the same. In another embodiment, the thickness of the second manufacturer might be slightly thicker or thinner and so the placement of openings 1149 might be slightly more or slightly less, respectively. The sheet end 1110 also includes a centerline 1142 which is substantially perpendicular to the centerline 942 (shown in FIG. 4). The opening 1149 has a width which is slightly larger than the width of the strap 49 of the mattress from the second manufacturer. The opening 1049 also has a width which is slightly larger than the width of the strap 49 of the mattress. When slightly larger than the width of the strap 49, the opening 1049, 1149 can accommodate the strap 49. The strap opening 1049 is offset from the centerline 1142 by a dimension “d₁” and is approximately the same distance as the offset of the strap 49 from the center of the mattress 42 or from the centerline of the mattress 42. The strap opening 1149 is offset from the centerline 1142 by a dimension “d₂” and is approximately the same distance as the offset of the strap 49 from the center of the mattress 42 or from the centerline of the mattress 42. With these dimensions in place, the placement of the openings 1149 for any sheet covering more than one manufacturer can be determined. In one embodiment, the mattress may have two straps. One on each end of the mattress and offset a distance “d₁” for a first manufacturer, and “d₂” for a second manufacturer, from the longitudinal center of the mattress 42. By placing two openings on each sheet end 1110, the sheet does not have to be specifically placed on the mattress 42 to receive the straps 49 of the mattress of either the first manufacturer or the second manufacturer. Of course, in another embodiment, there may be four straps 49. Each end of the mattress 42 corresponding to a sheet end 1110 would have two straps offset from the centerline 942 of the mattress by a distance “d₁” or “d₂”. In this instance, all the straps could be accommodated by the openings 1049, 1149 in each sheet end 1110.

In each of the above embodiments shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the openings 1049, 1149 are formed with reinforced edges to minimize wear and prevent the opening from tearing out prematurely. These reinforced edges can be formed by stitching the edges, similar to the forming of buttonholes on a shirt. In the alternative, a backing material or other reinforcing material can be sewn around the edges of an opening 1049, 1149. Of course it should be further pointed out that an opening 1049 can be made wider to accommodate straps that are placed on mattresses at nearly the same position for two different manufacturers. In other words, one wider opening could accommodate straps from manufacturer 1 and manufacturer 2. In further embodiments, strap openings could be made and placed to accommodate more than two manufacturers. The sheet might be termed a universal sheet.

FIG. 12 shows a sheet end 1210 of a fitted sheet as still a further embodiment of the invention. The sheet end 1210 includes markings on the sheet end 1210 for a first manufacturer 1248, a second manufacturer 1249, and the like. The user could then make the openings for their particular manufacturer's playard. In another embodiment, reinforcing material could be provided so that the user could reinforce the openings they made. A set of directions 1220 could be provided to guide a do it yourselfer through the process. In another embodiment, a kit could be provided with a measuring device 1230, the reinforcing material 1240 and the instruction set 1220. In still another embodiment, there would be no markings on the sheet end 1210 and the user could measure the thickness of the mattress and the offsets and the thickness of the straps. They could measure and mark the sheet ends 1210 and make the cuts. In still a further embodiment, a pattern could be provided with the markings and the sheet end pattern could be pinned or otherwise secured to the sheet end 1210. The manufacturers markings such as for manufacturer 1248 and 1249 could be transferred to the sheet end 1210 or the user could simply make the cuts through the pattern. Openings could be made by cutting the appropriate marking on the pattern to form the openings on the sheet ends 1210.

FIG. 13 shows a sheet end 1310 of a fitted sheet 1300 having a plurality of elongated openings 1349 across the entire end of the fitted sheet, according to yet another embodiment of the invention. Each end of the fitted sheet includes a facing 1320 that carries elastic for the end of the fitted sheet 1300 along one edge. The other edge of the facing 1320 fits underneath a truncated edge 1330 of the end of the sheet 1300. The truncated edge 1330 overlaps the facing 1320. The truncated edge 1330 is tacked to the edge of the facing 1330 at several tack points or tack lines 1331.1332, 1333, 1334, 1335, 1336 and 1337 along the length of the truncated edge 1330 and the facing 1320. The tack lines hold the facing 1320 to the truncated edge 1330 to form a fitted sheet that extends fully under the mattress 42. A pocket or opening is formed between each of the tack lines 1331.1332, 1333, 1334, 1335, 1336 and 1337 along the length of the truncated edge 1330 and the facing 1320. The truncated edge 1320 overlays facing 1320 to form a continuous set of open pockets 1341. 1342, 1343, 1344, 1345, 1346 and 1347 along the length of the truncated edge 1330 and the facing 1320. The pockets are formed or positioned so they are approximately at or slightly below the thickness of the mattress 42. The result is a truly universal fitted sheet 1300 that can be used on multiple manufacturers playard mattresses. The pockets are continuous along the end 1310 of the sheet 1300 so that no matter where the straps 49 are attached to the end of the mattress 42, the strap 49 can pass through one of the pockets 1341. 1342, 1343, 1344, 1345, 1346 and 1347. The end result is that the sheet end 1310 includes a plurality of open pockets 1341. 1342, 1343, 1344, 1345, 1346 and 1347 through which a strap can pass. The sheet is then attached to the mattress and the strap is attached to the mattress and the bottom of the playard. This assures a safe playard for the child using the playard. Parents can also rest easy. This particular embodiment can be used on any mattress having dimensions approximately equal to the top portion between the corners.

FIG. 14 shows a view of one end of the sheet 1300 with one of the pockets 1341. 1342, 1343, 1344, 1345, 1346 and 1347 in an open position. It should be understood that both ends of the sheet 1300 have substantially the same structure so that straps 49 attached to either end of the mattress 42 can also pass through similar pockets 1341. 1342, 1343, 1344, 1345, 1346 and 1347 located on the other end. In this way, the manufacturer of the playard can place the straps 49 in most any orientation and the sheet 1300 can accommodate most of the orientations since each end includes a plurality of end to end pockets formed between the facing and the truncated end portion.

In another embodiment, the end of the sheet could be formed having a series of end to end slits or button holes. Such a structure could accommodate various positions of straps, but would probably be weaker than the sheet 1300 described above.

FIG. 15 shows a bottom view of the sheet 1300 having an end 1310 and another end 1310′, according to an example embodiment. The sheet also includes two sides 1350 and 1350′ located between the two sheet ends 1310 and 1310′. Each of the two sides includes a wing 1352 and 1352′. A tether 1360 connects the wings 1352 and 1352′. The tether 1360 can be any form of fastener. In this particular embodiment, the tether 1360 is comprised of a hook and loop fastener in which one portion 1362 is part of the hook and loop fastener 1360, and the other portion 1362′ is the other part of the hook and loop fastener. The sheet 1300 can be placed over the edges of the mattress 42 and the two wings 1352 and 1352′ can be unfolded so that the tether 1360 portions 1362 and 1362′ can be attached to one another. The tether 1360, when attached, further prevents the sheet 1300 from becoming dislodged by the occupant of the playard. The straps from the mattress 49 can be routed through one of the pockets 1341. 1342, 1343, 1344, 1345, 1346 and 1347 located on each end, through the playard's sidewall and to the bottom of the playard structure 20. In this way, the playard is safe for the occupant.

FIG. 16 shows a bottom view of an end of the sheet, according to an example embodiment. This is meant to further detail, describe and show the sheet end 1310. It should be noted, that each of the sheet ends is constructed in a similar manner. The sheet end 1310 of the fitted sheet includes a facing 1320 that carries elastic 1322 for the end of the fitted sheet 1300 along one edge. The other edge 1321 of the facing 1320 fits underneath a truncated edge 1330 of the end of the sheet 1300. The truncated edge 1330 overlaps the facing 1320. This is shown in FIG. 16, as broken lines that depict the other edge 1321 underneath the truncated edge 1330 of the end of the sheet 1300. The truncated edge 1330 is tacked to the edge of the facing 1320 at several tack points or tack lines 1331.1332, 1333, 1334 and 1335 along the length of the truncated edge 1330 and the facing 1320. The tack lines hold the facing 1320 to the truncated edge 1330 to form a fitted sheet that extends fully under the mattress 42. A pocket or opening is formed between each of the tack lines 1331.1332, 1333, 1334 and 1335 along the length of the truncated edge 1330 and the facing 1320.

In summary, a sheet for covering a mattress has at least one strap attached to the mattress. The at least one strap is for securing the mattress. The sheet further includes a first end, and a second end. The sheet has openings in the first end and in the second end to allow the at least one strap attached to the mattress to pass through the sheet. In one embodiment, the sheet includes at least one opening on the first end of the sheet and at least one opening on the second end of the sheet. In another embodiment, the sheet includes a plurality of openings on the first end of the sheet and a plurality of openings on the second end of the sheet. The plurality of openings are positioned to allow the at least one strap to pass through one of the plurality of openings in the sheet.

The sheet for covering a mattress includes a top portion having dimensions substantially similar to a major surface of the mattress. The covering for the mattress has the plurality of openings on the first end of the sheet and a plurality of openings on the second end of the sheet at a distance from the top portion about equal to the thickness of the mattress. In one embodiment, the sheet is a fitted sheet having four corner seams and corners which are longer than thickness of the mattress. The fitted sheet also includes an elastic portion at least at the corners that causes the elastic portion to be positioned within the bounds of the corners of the sheet or mattress to which it fits.

In another embodiment, the sheet for covering the mattress further includes a top having dimensions to cover the top of a mattress, two long sides extending from the top and dimensioned to be longer than the thickness of the mattress, and at least one truncated end located between the two long sides. In other words, the truncated end traverses the short end of the mattress. The sheet for covering the mattress also includes a facing which overlaps the truncated end. The truncated end is tacked to the facing in at least one point to keep the facing in an overlapping orientation with respect to the truncated end at the site of the tack. The overlapping facing and truncated end form at least a first pocket and a second pocket through which the strap on the mattress can extend. The first pocket and the second pocket form elongated openings that can accommodate straps attached to a mattress at a variety of attachment points. In one embodiment, the facing is tacked to truncated end with a linear tack. The facing and the two long sides include portions of elastic. In one embodiment, the elastic spans the corner of the sheet. The elastic draws the corner over the bottom of the mattress to hinder the fitted sheet from coming off the mattress.

In another embodiment, wings and a connector are provided to attach the two long sides to one another to further hinder the sheet for covering the mattress from coming off the mattress. The sheet for covering the mattress further includes a first wing attached to a first free end of one of the two long sides extending from the top, and a second wing attached to a second free end of the other of the two long sides extending from the top. A connector connects the first wing to the second wing. In one embodiment, the connector is a tether having a first portion of hook and loop fastener attached to the first wing and a second portion of hook and loop fastener attached to the second wing. In still another embodiment, the tether includes a strap having a length in the range of 0.25 inches to 7 inches. In other words, the straps forming the tether are each in the range of 0.25 inches to 7 inches long. When the two straps are connected the resulting tether has a length in the range of 0.25 inches to 7 inches long.

A playard system includes a playard structure, and a mattress which is sized to fit in the playard structure. The mattress includes at least one strap for attaching the mattress to the playard structure. The system also includes a sheet for covering the mattress. The sheet has a first end, and a second end. The sheet has openings in the first end and the second end to allow the at least one strap attached to the mattress to pass through the sheet so that it can be attached to the playard structure. In one embodiment, the sheet for covering a mattress includes a plurality of openings on the first end of the sheet and a plurality of openings on the second end of the sheet. In still another embodiment, the sheet for covering the mattress further comprises a top having dimensions to cover the top of a mattress, two long sides extending from the top and dimensioned to be longer than the thickness of the mattress, and at least one truncated end located between the two long sides. The sheet also includes a facing which overlaps the truncated end. The truncated end is tacked to the facing in at least one point to keep the facing in an overlapping orientation with respect to the truncated end. This forms at least a first pocket and a second pocket through which at least one strap can pass.

Also disclosed is pattern for a sheet for covering a mattress. The mattress has at least one strap attached to the mattress for securing the mattress. The pattern has at least one marking for an opening to accommodate the at least one strap attached to the mattress. The pattern is sized for a first end, and a second end of the sheet. In one embodiment, the pattern is printed onto the first end and the second end of the sheet. In another embodiment, a paper pattern is provided which a person can pin to the first end or second end of the sheet for covering a mattress.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments reveals the general nature of the invention sufficiently that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications without departing from the concept, and therefore such adaptations and modifications are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments.

It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Accordingly, the invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, equivalents and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. 

1. A sheet for covering a mattress having at least one strap attached to the mattress, the at least one strap for securing the mattress, the sheet further comprising: a first end; and a second end, the sheet having openings in the first end and the second end to allow the at least one strap attached to the mattress to pass through the sheet.
 2. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 1 wherein the openings include at least one opening on the first end of the sheet and at least one opening on the second end of the sheet.
 3. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 2 wherein the openings include a plurality of openings on the first end of the sheet and a plurality of openings on the second end of the sheet, the plurality of openings positioned to allow the at least one strap to pass through one of the plurality of openings in the sheet.
 4. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 1 wherein the openings include a plurality of openings on the first end of the sheet and a plurality of openings on the second end of the sheet.
 5. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 4 wherein the sheet includes a top portion having dimensions substantially similar to a major surface of the mattress, the covering for the mattress having the plurality of openings on the first end of the sheet and a plurality of openings on the second end of the sheet at a distance from the top portion about equal to the thickness of the mattress.
 6. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 1 wherein the sheet is a fitted sheet having four corner seams and corners which are longer than thickness of the mattress, the fitted sheet also including an elastic portion at least at the corners that causes the elastic portion to be positioned within the bounds of the corners of the sheet.
 7. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 1 wherein the sheet for covering the mattress further comprises: a top having dimensions to cover the top of a mattress; two long sides extending from the top and dimensioned to be longer than the thickness of the mattress; at least one truncated end located between the two long sides; and a facing which overlaps the truncated end, the truncated end tacked to the facing in at least one point to keep the facing in an overlapping orientation with respect to the truncated end, and forming at least a first pocket and a second pocket.
 8. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 7 wherein the facing is tacked to truncated end with a linear tack.
 9. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 7 wherein the facing and the two long sides include portions of elastic.
 10. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 7 further comprising: a first wing attached to a first free end of one of the two long sides extending from the top; a second wing attached to a second free end of the other of the two long sides extending from the top; and a connector for connecting the first wing to the second wing.
 11. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 10 wherein the connector is a tether having a first portion of hook and loop fastener attached to the first wing and a second portion of hook and loop fastener attached to the second wing.
 12. The sheet for covering a mattress of claim 11 wherein the tether includes a strap being 0.25 inches to 7 inches in length.
 13. A playard system comprising: a playard structure; a mattress which is sized to fit in the playard structure, the mattress including at least one strap for attaching the mattress to the playard structure; a sheet for covering the mattress further comprising: a first end; and a second end, the sheet having openings in the first end and the second end to allow the at least one strap attached to the mattress to pass through the sheet so that it can be attached to the playard structure.
 14. The playard system of claim 13 wherein the sheet for covering a mattress includes a plurality of openings on the first end of the sheet and a plurality of openings on the second end of the sheet.
 15. The playard system of claim 13 wherein the sheet for covering the mattress further comprises: a top having dimensions to cover the top of a mattress; two long sides extending from the top and dimensioned to be longer than the thickness of the mattress; at least one truncated end located between the two long sides; and a facing which overlaps the truncated end, the truncated end tacked to the facing in at least one point to keep the facing in an overlapping orientation with respect to the truncated end, and forming at least a first pocket and a second pocket.
 16. A pattern for a sheet for covering a mattress, the mattress having at least one strap attached to the mattress, the at least one strap for securing the mattress, the pattern having at least one marking for an opening to accommodate the at least one strap attached to the mattress to pass, the pattern sized for a first end, and a second end of the sheet.
 17. The pattern of claim 16 wherein the pattern is printed onto at least one of the first end or the second end of the sheet for covering a mattress.
 18. The pattern of claim 16 wherein the pattern is printed on paper and sized to fit onto at least one of the first end or the second end of the sheet. 